Fashion firm Hallenstein Glasson has appointed current chief operating officer Stuart Duncan as its new Group CEO who will take on the role on April 1.

With Duncan at the helm, the business will continue to focus on building digital engagement with customers, cost control and improving market share in the New Zealand and Australian fashion apparel sector in which the group operates.

Duncan, who has been Hallenstein’s COO since 2015, previously held senior management roles with John Lewis and House of Fraser in the UK.

Hallenstein also announced Mary Devine, who has been group managing director for the past two years, will step down and revert to non-executive director effective April 1.

“We are very appreciative of the commitment Mary made in taking on the role as group managing director,” said Warren Bell, chairman of directors. “Her mandate to further develop the executive team and deliver on strategic initiatives has been a key enabler in making the following Executive appointments.”

Meanwhile, Hallenstein Brothers’ current buying manager Jason Barrow, who has been with the business for nine years, has been promoted as the brand’s new CEO.